Brother, can you spare an aspirin?

      As a career coach, I always remind clients that I am a life coach first and then a career coach.  Your career is only one aspect of your life.  Every adult's life consists of: health/well being, financial, career, relationships, leisure, and spiritual.  People are usually motivated to make changes in their careers when they experience financial or interpersonal difficulties with co-workers.  It is when the pressure to make a career change due to health or spiritual needs, that things become complicated. 

     Health concerns can be major or minor.  A cold or allergy would normally falls in the latter category however, many Baby Boomers have chronic disabilities such as diabetes, hypertension, or are recovering from cancer and this impacts the affects of a simple cold.  As a result of these chronic conditions, taking over the counter medications is not recommended because of the potential interaction between the nonprescription and prescription medication.  In some cases, people's immune systems have been compromised because of their medical condition and they are more susceptible to colds. 

     Your job search could be affected in several ways:  stamina, appearance, communication, ability to learn new material, concentration and memory.  Baby Boomers are frequently prescribed pain pills however they affect your appearance.  People frequently taking this type of medication can give the impression that they are hung over or wasted.  When your stamina is compromised, you may need additional time to recover from what appears to be a slight cold or you may have multiple doctor's appointments.  This may present a problem participating in work activities or completing assignments.  Finally, some people have bruises or appear injuired and this may not be deemed an appropriate appearance when interacting with small children or the public.   

      The best way to address health issues that are impacting your ability to perform your job is to document your medical history.  Be able to discuss your disability or chronic medical condition, side effects of your medications and any precautions that you may need to take.  Your doctor and pharmacist can assist you.  In addition, you can google your medical condition and medication.  Be prepared to provide suggestions for any need for accommodations that you may need.  Check with your local hospital and on the Internet for support groups that you should attend when contemplating a career change.  Members of the group could provide suggestions on jobs or employment that are compatible with your condition as well as suggestions on how to best present yourself.  They can also assist you role playing a discussion your medical condition.  

       Changes in you physical health can affect your mental health.  Maintaining a daily routine, exercising and having a supportive network could help you maintain a positive attitude and stable mental health.  

       If you have any questions regarding making a career change due to your health, please contact me for detailed suggestions.   

                 

Do you watch reality TV?

     There is a reality TV show called "Downsized".  I have never watched an episode only the commercials.  The concept is to observe how a large family (more than 4 kids) make ends meet while the parents are either not working or under-employed. I am not a big fan of reality TV, sitcoms or programs that "address" social or family issues.  This includes watching political candidates and financial wiz-bangs discuss the economy.  Yes, there is a school of thought that says these shows are educational because they present coping skills, possible solutions, reduce the feeling of being in an unique situation and are politically informative.  I strongly disagree!
      First, life's problems can not be solved in 30 minutes.  Secondly, my spouse, kids, dog, co-workers and neighbors are not as insightful, forgiving, open minded, forgetful, or as caring as the people on the sitcoms.  Finally, when I am in a crisis, I seldom view my  problems as fodder for jokes.

      In the books  "The Secret"  by Rhonda Byrne and "The Law of Attraction" by Abraham and Hicks, the authors describe how our thoughts affect our lives.  Even the Bible states that our thoughts predict how we will behave.  It is my opinion, that filling your mind with subtle negative messages (ie there are no jobs, you have to accept less than a satisfactory position, these are desperate times)  that are conveyed in these programs your ability to participate manage your career will be significantly compromised.  Staying motivated is key to a fulfilling career.  These messages will not help you.
    Should you avoid watching the news or reading the paper and assume a Pollyanna approach to life?  By no means would I advocate that life style. You need to be aware of developments in your community and career field, so that you can anticipate changes and opportunities.  However, just like your diet, you need to monitor both the amount of "negative" calories you are consuming and exercise (positive/supportive activity) you are performing in order to maintain a healthy life style. What are some steps you can take to maintain a positive attitude?

1.  Limit the amount of time you spend observing shows, reading articles or discussing the negative economy.  More than 60 minutes per day in this pursuit will become an emotional drain.
2. Avoid engaging in conversation with people that have a defeatist attitude. 
3. Avoid seeking advise from people that are extremely critical.  They can point out your deficits but seldom have suggestions on how to play up your strengths, remove or minimize a weakness nor do they notice any positive changes that you make. 
4. Use a technique developed by Mary Kay Ashe, founder of Mary Kay Cosmetics, say "Cancel, cancel, cancel" to yourself immediately after a negative thought crosses your mind.
5. Make a list of your strengths/accomplishments and review it daily.
6. Before going to bed, make a "Daily To Do" list of at least 5 actions that you will take the next day to promote yourself.
7. Become involved in organizations and job hunt clubs that have an investment in your success ie many schools/training programs get a "bonus" when they report a graduate has secured suitable employment. 
8. Read biographies of highly successful people.
9. Network - have a conversation (not tweet, text, email) but actually talk with someone that is achieving their goals.  People convey energy in their voice and facial expression. Aim to talk with 30 people in 30 days.   
10. Envision your future.  Have a clear image in your mind on how you will look, act and live when you achieve your goal.  Remind yourself of this image every day. 

If you need help with any of these ideas or if you would like some more suggestions, please contact me. 

Courageous Cat

     I love chatting on Facebook!.  It is a great medium for me to communicate with people from the old neighborhood.  We share our concerns about our the kids, brag about the grand kids, compare our medical problems, cost of prescriptions, problems on the job or adjusting to retirement and reminisce about our childhood activities. One of those activities was watching TV.  Television was relatively new in the 1950s and 1960s, therefore there were very few television shows and it was a family activity.  As a Baby Boomer, you probably watched cartoons like "Courageous Cat and Minute Mouse",  "Deputy Dog" and "Dudley Do-Right" just like me.   Albeit, the characters were extremely stereotyped and the plots were straight forward the message was clear - hard honest work always pays and good always conquers evil.  As kids, we bought that storyline hook, line and sinker.  This theme was reinforced in our social outlets.     
     Lets take a walk down memory lane and critically review the story lines.  In the Dudley Do-Right series, Polly is danger, screaming for help when Dudley drops in at the last minute.  Courageous Cat had a gun that when activated always provided correct the tool to save the day.  Deputy Dog, proceeded slowly and cautiously through his investigations.  The bad guy thought he was going to get away when Deputy would solve the case.  What do these stories have in common?  The good guy didn't give up!  They kept going despite the odds and lack of support from their superiors or peers.
     Are there lessons to be learned (or remembered)?  I think so!  I know that Dudley Do-Right isn't going to appear nor do I have Courageous Cat's zap gun but I do know that if I don't try nothing will happen.  
     First, It would be unrealistic to expect anyone to stay positive or motivated every day.  Even Deputy Dog took time to rejuvenate between cases.  You need something that is fun and energizing.  With limited funds consider low cost alternatives, ie instead of going to the movies rent a video. Could you invite friends over to watch TV.
     Second, if we were to continue our comparison with our childhood role models, we would notice that they were all physically fit.  They walked, ran or rode a horse for at least 30 minutes (the length of a cartoon episode) five days a week.  Are you in shape?   Walking or jogging is great exercise and inexpensive.
      It seems like these cartoon characters were living their lives in balance.  They addressed the issues of wellness/health, career, leisure but what about finances and spirituality.  I don't recall any of these figures having to do without.  Somehow, in their world the universe seemed to  provide for all of their needs.  Isn't this the same concept that is presented in the Law of Attraction?  They assumed they would have and they did.  Perhaps we could adopt this attitude.  Finally, spirituality was addressed by their ability to follow their code of conduct.  They all believed in their mission which was to serve others.  Can you say this about yourself?
       Now that we have walked down memory lane, how can you use this information to help your job search?

A funny thing happened ...

     I recently read Michael J Fox's book, "A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The  FUTURE, Twist and Turns and Lessons Learned".  Published in 2010, it is geared for recent college graduates, so why am I recommending it to Baby Boomers?  Because it is about accepting and adapting.
      Most likely you are facing a career challenge because of the economy, health change or the loss of the primary bread winner in your family.  The key to overcoming this disruption in our life style is to adapt.  In this book, Michael J. Fox used humor as a coping tool.  Yes, he admitted to abusing alcohol, but we all negotiated the initial phase of this process by pretending it wasn't happening.  Some people used alcohol others engaged in reckless behavior, some gamble, we each have a poison of choice!  The important thing is that we realized that coping mechanism wasn't working and stopped.  Next, we moved into the anger phase, then negotiation and finally we arrived at acceptance.  This behavior is typical of all human beings and is well documented in psychological research.  This memoir recognizes that aspect of of life but stresses that life is a healing process.  As we negotiate each phase, there are lessons to be learned and the manner in which we learn the lesson is just as important as the lesson.
     The tool used by Mr. Fox throughout this entire process was his authenticity.  He was true to himself and used that truth as his compass.  It was this force to lead him to end his formal education in the 11th grade.  It sustained him during periods of unemployment and helped him to realize that Parkinson's disease is not the end of his career but the beginning of a new one.   Today, Michael J. Fox has obtained his GED after being awarded multiple honorary doctoral degrees, raised millions of dollars for stem cell research as well as lead political lobbies.  None of these things would have been possible without him being authentic.
     The authentic characteristic allows people to really see your vulnerabilities and still receive unconditional love.  Most people can go through life and never truly experience love because it only occurs when three things occur simultaneously.  You feel (both emotionally and physically) safe, valued (as in your existence provides some meaning to others) and finally accepted for who you are (not what you potentially could become). Michael J. Fox loved himself enough to be able to share his authentic self without expectations from others.
      It is the authentic self that permits use bond with others and is referenced in many books on sells, marketing, emotional intelligence as well as networking.  It is the trait allows others to trust us.  By learning to embrace our-self and our situation will we be able to determine the new direction that we need to take.

Everywhere you go - There you are!

      As a life and career coach, people frequently come to me with questions regarding their career options but I always start at at same place.  I ask how are things going in their life in general.  Your life consists of 5 sections:  health/well-being, financial, vocational, relationships, leisure and spiritual. 

• Health/well-being: your physical health, stamina, grooming, attire.  
• Financial:       savings, earnings, retirement plan, insurance, investments, taxes, etc
• Vocational:    education, work history, hobbies,
• Relationships: all social interactions including parents, friends, children, significant others, co-workers 
• Leisure:         anything you do for fun
• Spiritual:        your believe and value system

Many people don't realize that an imbalance in any area will impact the others. So, how do you incorporate the various aspects of your life into your job search? 
 Health/well-being:   are you physically able to perform your anticipated job duties,  is your medical information organized so that you can provide it if needed, can you explain any disability for which you are seeking job accommodations, are there work hours that best meet your needs, is your appearance current, should you loose some weight.

• Financial: what is the minimum income that you need, what benefits do you need, can you afford to relocate, what is the going rate for the job that you are seeking
• Relationships: are your family and friends supportive, are you on good terms with at least 3 former co-workers and 3 peers that can serve as references for you.  
• Leisure activities: can be used to demonstrate leadership skills, personal qualities, networking opportunities
• Spiritual activities:  will help you stay focused and motivated with your career transition.  Do you share your spiritual believes with those that are going to be your primary emotional supports during this time?

Take the time, to review how you are doing in these areas.  Consider how your ideal life would be, how would you change your life, what would you leave the same and why would you make these decisions.  Try not to blame problems in your vocational life for problems in other aspects of your life.

For daily job search information Tweet me @CYCWC  and for more information on balancing you life please, contact me at 402.965.1496 or chartingyourcoursewithcoaching@gmail.com. 

Job Inteview 101

      Recently, a friend asked my advice about a job interview.  They were told that it was going to be a 'behavioral interview"  and did not know how to prepare for it.  I am going to share the answer to the question.

     Behavioral interviews and performance interviews are based on the job description and duties of the posted position.  They are designed to determine the best candidate for the position based on the psychological premise that past behavior is the best predictor of future behavior.  Because they are asking about specific, verifiable events, there is also the believe that the respondent will accurately describe their abilities, duties and outcome.  Since they are based on actual job duties, the potential employer reduces the possibility of being accused of bias or not obtaining enough information. 

     All jobs duties have the elements of quantity and quality.  In other words, how often are you expected to do something and how well you do it.  By asking behavioral questions, you are expected to address both issues.  Ideally, you should use an experience from previous employment however you can use any experience that is relevant. Structure your responses using the STAR format.  STAR stands for situation, task, action and results.  

• SITUATION - Answers the questions where did this occur (ie ACME Factory), when (ie., last year, at the annual marketing summit), why (ie potential loss of revenue due to new competition) who (presentation to company president by me).  State the relevance of the project to your company's or department's mission.
• TASK - Describes your assignment and role in the creating the solution to the problem.
• ACTION - What steps did you take to resolve the problem.  Make sure you use action words ie., developed, created, designed, that clearly indicate how you behaved. Include the number of people you supervised, duration of the project, the project budget so that the interviewer has a precise image of your work behavior.
• RESULTS - What was the outcome of your actions (ie., revenues increased by 10%, reached new target market).  If your results were not positive, then demonstrate that you analyzed the outcome and learned from this experience by stating why the plan was not successful and what would you do differently.  Since you are describing a situation in which you were the key player, do not blame someone else for failure because this implies you lack leadership skills and are not a good team player.  This is a good time to mention any award or recognitions that you received for your role in resolving this situation. 

     How should you prepare for this type of interview?  Carefully review the job description and determine the critical elements, (knowledge, skills and abilities) that are needed for the position.   Identify two or three situations for each element.  Consider the corporate culture and personal attributes that you would like to present and select the best examples.  Using the STAR format develop describe each example.  Finally, do mock interviews in order to be able to present yourself in a relaxed, organized manner.

If you would like some assistance with job interviewing skills, please contact me at chartingyourcoursewithcoaching@gmail.com.   

I am my best instructor.

     Say it again - I am my best instructor.  This statement is only true if you can review your experiences objectively and learn from them. 
     By objectively I mean two things.  First you need to recognize and accept what is within your control and what is not. Children think magically and assume that they can magically change things.  Some people play the blame game.  Nothing is ever their fault.  If they don't have a job it is not because they lack job skills but because the economy is bad.   
     Recognizing how you have improved your performance during your job search is a critical skill.  After the interview, you should ask yourself questions like were you prepared for the interview, did you arrive on time, have a copy of your resume, have information on the people you are using for references.  Did you have questions for your interviewer and answer questions in a brief but complete manner?  Did you address the interviewer by name?  Did you get the business cards or names of other people that were present at the interview?  If you could do the day over what would you change?  What would you leave the same?    
       Armed with this information, how are you going to change?  Perhaps, you could do mock interviews?  Can you brainstorm with a friend?  Could you make a check list of things that you should bring? If you believe you didn't answer question satisfactorily perhaps you could reword your answer in your thank you letter?  Perhaps, you could review the interview questions and develop answers. 
       Each experience can make you better but only if you take responsibility for things that are within your control.  But how do you decide if something is within your control?  I  suggest that you make absolute statements.  Since the statement  "Absolutely, no one is being hired." is not true then you know there is something that you can do become hired.  You can also ask people that recently found employment for feedback. 
       So not only are you your best instructor but you are your best student.
    

Another kick in the head!

     Sorry folks for not updating my blog site.  Unfortunately, I got a kick in the head that set me back emotionally, mentally and physically.  Like so many of you, I am a Baby Boomer that always did "the right thing".  I went to school then college, graduated, got a job, married, bought a house and had kids.  I worked both private and government sector in order to create a nice life for myself and my family.  Then 6  years ago I started to get sick.  Since, I never abused my sick leave  I had time saved , which I used to get treated and was out for than a more than a year.  When I returned to work, guess what????

     I applied for and was approved for disability.  After insurance I was left with a small mountain of expenses which I  paid.  I adjusted my life style and attempted to live within my means.  Now, I'm being told that the medication that I have been taking for almost 5 years is causing me new health issues.  I understand that there are risks with all medications and medical procedures.  I am not blaming the doctors or the pharmaceutical companies. I was just hoping to stay off the radar and get my life back on track. Now, as I look into the future, I realize that I am going to create a new series of medical bills.  I keep wondering how much this is going to cost and how will I pay it.

      Just like most Baby Boomers from working class families, I have been working since my teens and paid into the system.  I applied and was approved for disability.  By law, I can work within certain guidelines, so I started my coaching business.  I feel like I am contributing and can adjust my activities to meet my limitations. For the last week,  I having sitting in my house and listening to the fat cat idiots in Washington discuss how hard working Americans like me are deadbeats because we need medical coverage, health care and can't work 40 or 50 hours a week anymore.  They are not even considering the lack of employment opportunities.  It makes me want to vomit!  Somehow, they don't hear or see that Baby Boomers like you and I, had the rug pulled out from under us.  I know so many people that worked, saved and lived within their means until their company closed, someone stole the pension fund or they moved to a 3rd world nation.  Others, like me, developed a health issue and can't return to our previous line of work.   We are not lazy or cheats.  We want to work!.  We are looking for work but can't seem to get pass go!   I thought about those people that go to jail for committing really horrendous crimes.  They get medical, dental, vision at least 3 meals at day as well as free rent.  It sounds like it pays to be immoral.  

     As a career transition coach, I really understand what it is like to wonder what is the best way to get back in the market.  How do I explain that gap in my work history?  When do I tell them about my physical limitations?  I recognize that look when the interviewer realizes I graduated college before they were born.

     I am not asking anyone to feel sorry for me.  I have had a good life and believe that God will bless my efforts. However, I asking my fellow Baby Boomers to get with me and Tweet, write, text, call, email your political representative and let them know that enough is enough!  We can start balancing the budget by cutting their salaries.         

The Habit 7 Attitude

     Habit 7 in Stephen R Covey's book "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People." is tittled "Sharpen the Saw".    This means enhancing and maintaining the assets that you and every individual possess.  These assets fall in the areas of physical attributes, social/emotional health, mental acuity, and spiritual.  This habit is vital while participating in a career transition.
     Exercising, diet and rest will address the basic needs of maintaining your health.  Depending on your age and gender other issues may need to be addressed.  You should consult your personal physician for assistance in this area.  According to the Mayo Clinic there are 7 benefits to exercising (http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/exercise/HQ01676).   By addressing this issue, you will have the stamina to participate in a job search as well as make a good physical impression.
    Googling the American Psychological Society (APA) for social supports results in over 200,000 hits.  Extensive research has been done in this field and documents the impact on well being.  For the employment seeker, social and emotional support can be obtained from a variety of resources.  Family and friends while well meaning could have a demoralizing effect.  Professional networks and job hunt clubs can also be a mixed blessing.  Members can be very supportive and provide leads however, caution needs to be exercised.  After being rejected multiple times, sometimes, people develop a cynical and jaundiced approach.  These negative attitudes can be absorbed and impact your job search.
     Education is the best way to maintain your mental acuity.  If there are regular postings for your occupations, then consider upgrading your skills or obtaining a current certification.  Language skills including American Sign Language, could facilitate employment in fields that require direct interaction with other people.  In some cases returning to school is the best option.  Someone that worked their way up the ladder might consider obtaining a degree in management.  In other cases, physical demanding jobs could be mitigated by becoming an instructor or  inspector. Education can be considered even while working part-time or irregular hours because there are many online programs. 
      Staying involved with professional organizations, doing research, attending seminars and workshops are other ways in which you can stay current.  Using technology, such as the Nook, Ipad, and audio books can enable you to read trade journal, books and papers while performs other tasks.
       Spirituality is not necessarily having a religious orientation.  It could be as simple as maintaining an attitude of gratitude, humility and wonder.  Some people learn to meditate or practice yoga while others pray.  Reading biographies of people that overcame unimaginable challenges can inspire you.  Attending motivational seminars and surrounding yourself with positive people will also encourage you to maintain your momentum.

If your get & go got up & left perhaps you should too!

      How many of these words apply to you?

1. Bored________
2. Exhausted_____
3. Irritated_______
4. Overwhelmed__
5. Underwhelmed_
6. Tired_________
7. Confused______
8. Frustrated_____
9. Angry________
10. Unfulfilled_____

If you checked more than five perhaps you are experiencing burnout in your present job.  According to Websters New World College Dictionary burnout is a "state of emotional exhaustion caused by the stresses of one's work or responsibilities or physical exhaustion, as from dissipation or overwork, and there fatigued, unmotivated, etc."

Does this mean you have a bad attitude, lack work ethic or is something else a factor?    According to About.com (http://stress.about.com/od/burnout/a/mental_burnout.htm) people with Type A personalities and those that tend be perfectionist are more prone to burnout.  These characteristic initially would imply that  you should be a good and desirable worker.  So what went wrong?

Job stress is a major factor in the formation of burnout.  Stress could be the result of working long hours, limited emotional supports, unclear expectations and surviving the proverbial sword of Damocles.  Other less obvious factors that would loss of belief in the mission of the organization, being stonewalled, or the realization that you never liked the job but took it to satisfy other people's expectations.  Being aware of the factors, could help you avoid or minimise the impact of burnout.  Excessive work hours do not allow you the time necessary to recharge your batteries or develop meaningful emotional relationships.  Set limits on your work hours.  Your work expectations should be clearly delineated in your job description.  The personnel department, union representative or supervisor should be able to provide this information.  This information may not be available if your company is undergoing a major reorganization and/or there is a shortage of personnel in key managerial positions.  The lack or consistent management could be fueling your anxiety.  If your company is experiencing financial difficulties and arbitrarily laying people off  then it is easy to believe that your work performance is no longer related to job security.  Having this feeling of impending doom leads to feelings of hopelessness and depression.  Loss of faith in your company could be triggered by realization that one of your core values is being violated or is in conflict with upper management.    

One solution to burnout is to change your job or career.  Many people are reluctant to take this step because of the unstable economy.  However, consider the long term effect that remaining in this environment will have on your health, career and relationship before you decide to remain.  Making this change will take time and careful planning.  If your state of malaise is related to the company's instability, you will need to determine if the entire industry is experiencing a shift.  If it is the industry then perhaps you should explore another career field.  Your local community college could help identify other interest and careers.  If you are just tired of your present position but the industry is relatively stable consider positions in management, training, and qualify assurance.  Your expertise and experience could facilitate this transition. 

Once you make the decision to change, you may feel more energized.  Your work has new meaning because you realize that it is only a means to an end.  Do not linger in your present position any longer than necessary.  Dr Seuss said it best " You have brains in your head.  Your have feet in your shoes.  You can steer yourself any direction you choose.  You're on your own.  And you know what you know.  And YOU are the guy who'll decide where to go."

Risk management during career transition

      Heart pounding?  Sweaty palms?  Hyperventilating?  Do you believe these are symptoms of a career transition?  WRONG!   Changing careers should not feel like you are leaping into an abyss.  Yes, there is going to be some stress but it is manageable.
       A clear understanding of the reasons that prompted your decision to change careers is essential.  This information will let you know how quickly you will need to leave your current employer, resources, availability of references and your feelings about the transition.  The latter is extremely important!  Your feelings will impact how you interact with others, approach necessary tasks and ability to recall information.
        Develop a Career Transition Plan, which is a formal strategy listing the steps need to be taken.  These steps should meet the SMART criteria.  They should be specific, measurable, accountable, realistic and time specific.  Federal, state and county employee can consult with their personnel department.  The U. S. Office of Personnel Management offers the Career Transition Assistance Program.  (www.opm.gov/rif/employee_guides/career_transition.asp).   Military personnel can participate in either TAP or DTAP (http://www.turbotap.org/portal/transition/resources/About_Us).  Major corporations that are downsizing  or relocating frequently offer employee assistance programs or outsourcing sources as part of the discharge package.  Determine your entitlement to these benefits by consulting the human resources department and/or union representative.  Depending upon your state unemployment services may provide counselling services that outline the steps to be taken and other supportive services.
     According to Susie Orman, you can be financially responsible and make a midlife career change.  She recommends that your have at 6 months of saving at all times and provides steps on how to make a career transition in her article "Getting Set to Start Over"  (http://www.oprah.com/money/Getting-Set-to-Start-Over).  Consulting with your financial planner, personal banker, investment broker and/or accountant will help you make decisions on the best time to leaving your present position, withdraw money and adjust your financial investments.   
     Purchasing a business or franchise requires due diligence.  Informational interviews, The Occupational Handbook and the Department of Labor can provide industrial information but legal advise is necessary.  Checklists such as the one listed at http://www.findlaw.com/  on "Buying a Business: Due Diligence Checklist" is a good place to start.  Organizations such as SCORE and the U. S. Small Business Administration (http://www.sba.gov/), Success Magazine, or sites such as http://www.entrepreneur.com/ are useful.  Depending on the type of business, consider using an attorney that specializes in e-Commerce Law, Entertainment & Sports, Environmental, Tax, Business or Real Estate/Property Law.
     The financial aid office for institution of higher learning that you are considering can provide assistance.  A Google search will provide a plethora of sites that  promise to help locate funding for this pursuit.  One of these sites is www.collegegrantnews.com/new.php.
      If you need help creating your career transition plan, contact me at 402.965.1496.
 

Welcome to the Post Employment Offer Zone.

     OK,  you got the job offer, did the fist pump, victory dance plus your friends and family are ready to buy you a few rounds of your favorite beverage.   Man are you psyched!  STOP THE PRESSES!  There are some really critical things that you need to do because you are now in the Post Employment Offer Zone.
     The Post Employment Offer Zone is the twilight zone of  the vocational world.  It is a shadowy place where things are not what they really seem to be.   First, are you certain that you received a job offer?  Is it in writing?  Many offers are made on the phone with paper work to follow.  Make sure that your new potential employer has your correct contact information.  This is particularly true if you are moving from your college dorm.    If using Email, you don't want this package to land in the Spam Box, so take the time to update your files.  Did you make your intentions clear by sending a thank you note for the offer?  Your thank you note does not have to say that you accepted the position.  It is a written acknowledgement on your part that an offer has been extended.
      What did you say when you received the offer?  If you have been on several interviews recently, you might want to ask for 24 hour grace period  before giving your decision because you could receive another offer.  It would be very bad form to decline a position after accepting it.  Use this time, to tactfully determine your standing with the companies with which you have interviewed and would to obtain employment. 
        You sold yourself to the company but has the company sold itself to you?  Do you know the details of the job?   What is your job title, duties, responsibilities, and work hours?  Does it include relocation, health benefits, life insurance, annual/vacation/sick leave, education, and parking?  What is your salary and is it  negotiable?  If it is, now is the time to act.  If you have more than one offer compare benefits but do not engage in a bidding war.  The world is small and you could loose both offers. Who is you supervisor and are they the same person as your boss?  Did you meet them during the interview?  If your supervisor and boss are not the same person, how will you be evaluated and what is their relationship?   What training will be provided, where will it be and how soon will you need to complete it?
        If this wasn't enough to consider, remember your status has changed under the Americans With Disabilities Act and other laws that protect employees.  The employer now has the right to request a medical and perform other background checks.  Many jobs offers are contingent upon the results of these findings.  Review the information that you provided to determine that is completely accurate in order to avoid any confusion.  Consult with staff at the local department of labor office in order to be clear of your responsibilities and rights. 
         The last but far from the least of your concerns is evaluating the offer.  The key is to performing a good evaluation is to follow your gut instincts.  You need to know how this position will fit into your career plans.  Having a good understanding your life style, values, and attitude, will let you know if you will fit into that corporate culture.  Look at their mission statement, policy and any other information that you can obtain.
       Once you make your decision don't burn any bridges behind you.  Give your current employer at least 2 weeks notice.  If you are currently unemployment benefits, let the appropriate person know and ask if there is any assistance available while you transition into your new position.  This is important because you might be entitled to funds to relocate, uniforms or other supplies.  Let agencies, career centers and job search engines know that you have obtained employment and with who.  You don't want career counselors contacting your new employer with potential candidates for your position, nor do you want your employer to get the impression that you are still seeking employment.        
      Now, you can celebrate!

Career advise from my mom.

      Our parents have a tremendous impact on our career choices, goals and work habits, but, have you considered how they impacted your job search?   In honor of Mother's Day, this  week I am going to share some pearls of wisdom from my mom. 

1. No one will know how good you are if you don't bang your own drum.
2. Nothing beats a failure but a try.
3. Be polite.
4. Respect your elders (more mature people that you supervise and young people in managerial positions).
5. You want your boss to love you.  Always do your best work.
6. God gave you a mouth - ask questions.
7. Wear clean clothes.
8. Sit up straight.
9. Keep your focus.
10. Keep learning to keep earning.
11. Be friends with everyone on your job.
12. Mind your mouth (don't gossip).
13. Remember where you came from and who you are.
14. Just because everyone is doing it doesn't make it right.
15. Ask God to bless your efforts
16. Be mindful of the little people (or be respectful of all people including the cleaning people)
17. No job is too little for you (all assignments deserve your full attention)
18. Be true to yourself
19. Come early - stay late
20. You can't fall if you are sitting on the ground.
21. Be helpful.
22. Think!
23. Be thankful for your job.
24. Smile!
25. Ask God to guide your steps.
26. A dollar has four corners.  Pinch a corner for charity, a rainy day, to invest in yourself and one to live on.
27. Have pride in yourself because you are standing on the shoulders of your forefathers but never be over confident
28. You can learn with your eyes, ears as well as you hands. 
29. Take pride in your work.  Always do your best!
30. Look people in the eye when you talk with them.
31. Beauty comes from within not a jar.
32. Help others because someone helped you.
33. You are never alone.  Someone is always watching you even if it just your own conscious.
34. Aim for the stars, if you miss you'll catch the moon, if you miss the moon you'll catch the clouds, if you miss the clouds you'll land in a tree and if you miss the tree you'll still be on the ground. 
35.  If the Devil closes the door,  God will open the window but you need to climb out.

Amazing!  My mom knew the importance of networking, branding, self care, faith and optimism in order to keep and maintain a job.